Interested Field
• Hardware in the Loop (HIL (PHIL, CHIL))
• Grid Codes (Standards)
• Grid-connected inverters (GFM, GFL)
• FACTS (STATCOM, UPFC)
• Deep Learning
Vaasan yliopisto (University of Vaasa)
Shahin is a PhD student at the University of Vaasa, specializing in modern power systems, grid-connected inverters, and advanced control strategies for renewable-integrated grids. His research focuses on the stability, performance, and grid-code compliance of converter-dominated power systems.
His Ph.D proposal summary is :
Data centers are projected to consume 945 TWh, globally, by 2030 to support AI and cloud computing, with Finland emerging as a key hub due to its cool climate and rapidly growing market. These hyperscale facilities increasingly use renewables through microgrids for resilience, but grid-forming inverters used for connecting these resources to the grid face compliance challenges with standards like EN 50549 and Fingrid's VJV2024, especially for synthetic inertia and harmonics from nonlinear IT loads under varying grid conditions. Traditional grid code compliance testing is often unsafe and difficult to scale. This PhD research will develop a PHIL setup with OPAL-RT simulations and Danfoss GFM inverters to automate validation, extend MATLAB/Simulink libraries, model data center microgrids, and achieve compliance across different grid strengths. Outcomes include an open-source toolkit, publications, and guidelines that provide standards libraries for safe and fast testing, improving efficiency and reliability of low-emission and resilient data center microgrids in Finland.
The University of Pavia
The University of Pavia (Italian: Università degli Studi di Pavia, UNIPV) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, with roots tracing back to 1361. Located in Pavia, Lombardy, it was the sole university in the Milan and Lombardy region until the late 19th century. Recognized by Times Higher Education as one of the top 10 universities in Italy and among the top 300 worldwide in 2022, it continues to be a global hub for academic excellence.
With over 20,000 students, including 1,500 international students annually, the university offers a wide range of programs: 80 undergraduate courses, 40+ master’s programs, and nearly 20 doctoral programs, including options in English. Its scattered "city campus" integrates seamlessly with Pavia, offering cultural and scientific resources like museums, libraries, botanical gardens, and research centers. The university is also affiliated with Policlinico San Matteo, a leading teaching hospital, and participates in global initiatives like the COIMBRA Group, the European University Association, and the Erasmus Programme.
I am currently in the final semester of the Laurea Magistrale program at the University of Pavia, specializing in Electrical Engineering. My academic journey here has been transformative, enabling me to deepen my expertise in Power Electronics, Smart Grids, and Electrical Machines.
Under the guidance of Prof. Zanchetta, I gained advanced knowledge of power electronics, particularly focusing on buck converters for CPU applications. I also had the opportunity to work on a group project analyzing magnetic fields in linear actuators using Simcenter, supervised by Prof. Di Barba.
Additionally, courses in Power Networks, Smart Grids, and Electrical Machines and Drives have enriched my skill set. I am especially grateful to Prof. Lucia Frosini, who not only supported me academically but also recommended me to several prominent companies in Italy—a testament to her mentorship and encouragement.
The University of Pavia has provided me with an excellent foundation for both practical and theoretical knowledge, and I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities and support I’ve received during my time here.
RWTH Aachen University
RWTH Aachen University, in German Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen, is a German public research university located in Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With more than 47,000 students enrolled in 144 study programs, it is the largest technical university in Germany.
RWTH Aachen in 2019 emerged from the final of the third federal and state excellence strategy. The university will be funded as a university of excellence for the next seven years. RWTH Aachen was already part of the federal and state excellence initiatives in 2007 and 2012. Since 2007, RWTH Aachen has been continuously funded by the DFG and the German Council of Science and Humanities as one of eleven (previously nine) German Universities of Excellence for its future concept RWTH 2020: Meeting Global Challenges and the follow-up concept The Integrated Interdisciplinary University of Science and Technology: Knowledge, Impact, Networks, also receiving grants for associated graduate schools and clusters of excellence. The university regularly accounts for the highest amount of third-party funds among all German universities, placing first per faculty member and second overall in the most recent survey from 2018.
I studied as an ERASMUS student on 2023-24 at the RWTH aachen University. I improved my knowledge about Power converter-dominated power systems by working onthe project ' Stability in Converter Dominated Transmission Systems' by supervising Prof. Albert Moser. If you need further information, email me.
Islamic Azad University
Islamic Azad University is one of the largest universities in the world by student population, ranking sixth globally. It is a prominent institution in Iran, with a significant impact in fields such as research, innovation, and technological development.
According to the 2014 Symgo ranking, Islamic Azad University earned high positions among over 5,000 research and academic institutions worldwide:
Innovation and Technological Impact Index: Qazvin branch ranked 2nd in Iran and 328th globally.
Research and Output Index: Science and Research Unit ranked 7th in Iran and 638th globally.
Research and Scientific Talent Index: Science and Research Unit ranked 3rd in Iran and 458th globally.
My Experience at Islamic Azad University
I earned my master’s degree from Islamic Azad University, an institution that provided me with exceptional academic opportunities. Working closely with esteemed professors like Prof. Ghadir Azizi Ghanad, Prof. Mahdi Salimi, and Prof. Hossein Shayeghi, I significantly enhanced my knowledge in Power Electronics, Power Systems, and Renewable Energy Resources. Their mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping my expertise and passion for advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University
Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University, founded in 1996 with official authorization from Iran’s Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology (MSRT), is located in Nūr, a scenic town in Mazandaran, Iran. The university was named after Haj Mirza Hossein Mohaddes Nouri, a prominent figure in the region.
The university’s mission is to advance knowledge, science, and technology while nurturing competent and creative talents at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Over the years, it has grown rapidly and established itself as a leading educational institution in northern Iran. The university maintains close cooperation with the University of Mazandaran, ensuring high standards in education, regulations, and student affairs.
With a strong emphasis on academic quality and scientific research, the university has gained a reputation for producing influential research published in top international journals. Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University hosts over 3,500 students across its three faculties: the Faculty of Technical Engineering, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, and Faculty of Natural Resources. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, totaling 47 major fields of study.
My Experience at Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University
I received my Bachelor's degree in Control and Instrumentation Engineering from Allameh Mohaddes Nouri University. During my time there, I not only acquired solid theoretical knowledge but also developed practical expertise in control systems and instrumentation. The university provided a great environment for applying classroom concepts to real-world engineering challenges, fostering both academic and professional growth.
Tabriz technical and vocational university
I received my Associate's degree from Tabriz Technical and Vocational College, an institution that has been dedicated to preparing students for hands-on, practical careers since its inception in 1977 (1356 in the Persian calendar). Initially operating as a technical school, the institution continued its educational activities after the Iranian Revolution under the name *Tabriz Technical and Vocational Educational Complex*.
In 2007 (1386 in the Persian calendar), the college shifted its focus to train skilled technicians across various technical fields, aligned with the scientific standards of the country. Since 2011 (1390 in the Persian calendar), the institution has functioned as a "Technical and Professional University," under the supervision of the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, in accordance with the provisions of Iran's Fifth Development Plan.
As a student at Tabriz Technical and Vocational College, I received a strong foundation in practical engineering skills, which were crucial in preparing me for the technical challenges of my career. The institution’s emphasis on hands-on experience greatly contributed to my development as a capable and skilled engineer.
Professor Ghadir Azizi Ghanad
Power Electronic Ph.D. from University of Toulouse-France, professor of department of electrical and computer engineering, Islamic Azad University lecturer of electrical engineering at Islamic Azad University
TAREMCO, IRITEC (Iran International Engineering Company)
Professor Mahdi Salimi
Professor of Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Greenwich Lecturer of electrical engineering at the University of Greenwich
HVDC Transmission Line in Wind Farms
HVDC transmission lines are often used to transmit power from offshore wind farms to the mainland electrical grid. This is because the wind speeds in the open ocean are typically stronger and more consistent than on land, making offshore wind farms a more attractive option for wind energy generation. However, the distance between the wind farm and the electrical grid can be significant, and AC transmission of power over long distances can result in significant losses and decreased efficiency.
By using HVDC transmission, power from the wind farm can be transmitted to the electrical grid with minimal losses, and the electrical power can be transmitted over long distances without the need for intermediate substations, further reducing costs and improving efficiency. Additionally, HVDC transmission is better suited to handle the fluctuating and often intermittent power output from wind turbines, providing a more stable and reliable power supply to the electrical grid.
SiC Semiconductors
SiC (Silicon Carbide) is a material that has a wide range of applications in the electronics and power industries. It is a wide bandgap semiconductor, meaning it has a high energy bandgap and can handle high-temperature and high-power conditions. This makes it ideal for high-power, high-frequency, and high-temperature applications such as power electronics and electrical vehicle charging systems.
In power electronics, SiC is used in power devices such as diodes, MOSFETs, and IGBTs. It offers improved performance compared to traditional silicon-based devices, including higher voltage and current capabilities, faster switching speeds, and improved thermal performance. These benefits result in increased efficiency, reduced power loss, and reduced system size, making SiC a key enabling technology for high-performance and energy-efficient power electronics systems
Converter Station
A converter station is a facility that converts electrical power from one form to another. This is typically done using power electronics devices such as rectifiers, inverters, and transformers. Converter stations play a key role in the transmission and distribution of electrical power, and they are used in various applications, including:
HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) transmission systems, where AC power is converted to DC power for efficient and cost-effective transmission over long distances.
Interconnection of different AC power grids, where AC power from one grid is converted to match the voltage and frequency of another grid.
Integration of renewable energy sources into the electrical grid, where the fluctuating power output from wind turbines or solar panels is converted to match the steady state AC power of the grid.
Converter stations can range in size from small, portable units to large, multi-megawatt facilities, and they are a critical component of modern power systems, ensuring reliable and efficient transmission and distribution of electrical power.
Statcom's Valve
Statcom is an abbreviation for "Static Synchronous Compensator". It is a type of device used in electrical power systems to regulate voltage and provide dynamic reactive power compensation. A statcom valve is a key component in this device, used to control the flow of current and regulate the voltage levels in the electrical grid. The statcom valve works by quickly changing its impedance in response to changes in the grid's voltage levels, helping to maintain stable and balanced power conditions.
IGBT for Converter
An IGBT (Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor) is a power electronic device used in inverters for converting DC (direct current) into AC (alternating current). IGBTs are known for their high efficiency, fast switching speed, and low conduction losses, making them ideal for high-power applications such as variable frequency drives, welding, renewable energy systems, etc. An IGBT operates by controlling the flow of current between the collector and emitter by regulating the voltage applied to its gate terminal.
PWM for converter
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is a method of controlling the average value of a digital signal by changing the duty cycle (proportion of time that the signal is in a high state). It's commonly used for controlling power converters, such as voltage regulators, DC-DC converters, and AC-DC rectifiers. In these applications, the PWM signal is applied to the converter's power switch, allowing precise control over the output voltage or current. The main benefits of using PWM control are reduced heat dissipation, improved efficiency, and increased precision in controlling the output power.